In a recent statement, Bratya Basu questioned the autonomy and independence of VCs in West Bengal’s universities, suggesting that they were influenced by political forces. This remark did not sit well with Dharmendra Pradhan, who is a prominent member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has previously served as the Union Minister of Education.
Pradhan’s response to Basu’s comments was both scathing and critical. He accused Basu of undermining the principles of academic freedom and politicizing the appointment and functioning of VCs. Pradhan argued that universities should be centers of intellectual inquiry and free from political interference, emphasizing the importance of VCs in upholding these ideals.
Source:- the economic times
This exchange between the two politicians reflects a broader issue of political interference in the education sector, a topic that has been a subject of contention between the central government and several state governments. Critics argue that political interference can stifle academic freedom and hinder the development of a robust and innovative education system.
Source:- sansad tv
The clash between Dharmendra Pradhan and Bratya Basu is indicative of the complex and often contentious relationship between the central and state governments in India when it comes to education policies and governance. It remains to be seen how this dispute will influence the trajectory of higher education in West Bengal and whether it will lead to any substantive changes in the functioning of the state’s universities.
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